History of St. Fergal’s College

A Brief History of St Fergal’s College

St. Fergal’s College has educated many generations of people from the local and surrounding area since its foundation in 1937.

Early Beginnings 1931–1937

The school’s origins trace back to 1931, when adult classes in domestic science and woodwork were held in the local Ossory Agricultural Society hall and later in a small house beside the convent gates.
In 1932, there were 27 day-students and 92 adult evening-class attendees in Rathdowney, marking the establishment of continuing vocational education locally.

By 1937, the school acquired its present site (then known as the Circus Field) and opened a purpose-built building with three rooms (Domestic Science, Science, Woodwork), under the leadership of Principal Patrick Hoare.

Growth and Secondary Education 1960s–1980s

In the mid-1960s, the school expanded: in 1965, a metalwork room and a commerce room were added. In 1972, students sat the Leaving Certificate for the first time, allowing full secondary-level education to be completed at Rathdowney.

By 1987, a major new building project commenced to provide modern general-purpose classrooms, a science suite, IT facilities and administration space. In 1989, the school was officially renamed “St Fergal’s College,” and in that year it commenced with approximately 470 pupils.

Modernisation and Identity (1990s–2010s)

The 1990s brought further expansion: in 1996, a new building with classrooms and a science room was added, and in 1997, the school purchased 4.7 acres of land to create two large pitches and a training area.
A major milestone came in 2012 when a new building was completed, connecting the separate structures into one unified school building, including three new classrooms, a science room, an art room, meeting rooms and offices. The school continues to operate as a modern, co-educational, multidenominational institution serving the region.

Continuing Developments & Community Role

Over the years, St Fergal’s has grown not only in size and facilities but also in the breadth of its curriculum and its connection with the local community. The institution emphasises quality education in a caring and respectful environment.